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Flaming Katy

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana

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Flaming Katy · Kalanchoe blossfeldiana

Small long-lasting flower clusters in many colours, often displayed at Tết.

Care and placement

Prefers bright indirect light or gentle sun; water when the top 2–5 cm is dry in a fast-draining cactus mix at 15–24 °C (60–75 °F); a short-day plant.

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 30 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 30 cm

Things to consider

Kalanchoe contains bufadienolides: ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs and cats (vomiting, diarrhea, rarely abnormal heart rhythm). Keep away from pets and children.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

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How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent mix in a pot with drainage holes. A slightly snug pot still flowers well.

  2. Light

    Bright indirect light or partial sun; harsh midday sun scorches leaves. Outdoors in summer, use a shaded spot with only 1–2 hours of direct sun.

  3. Watering

    Water when the top 2–5 cm is dry, roughly every 2 weeks; let it dry between waterings to avoid root rot. Stems rot if waterlogged.

  4. Feeding

    A light feeder: balanced water-soluble fertilizer at half strength every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (or even less). Pause feeding during the flowering treatment.

  5. Pruning

    After flowering, cut off spent flower stalks to encourage bushy growth and future blooms.

  6. Propagation

    Take tip or leaf cuttings into lightly moist cactus mix after letting the cut callus; roots form in a few weeks.

  7. Pests and common problems

    Mealybugs (white fuzzy patches in leaf axils and undersides) are most common; also aphids and spider mites — neem oil or insecticidal soap. Overwatering causes stem rot; high humidity brings powdery mildew and leaf spot. Unexplained wilting may mean root mealybugs.

  8. For more flowers

    To rebloom: it is a short-day plant needing about 12–14 hours of uninterrupted darkness daily for roughly 6 weeks (some sources say 14–16) — cover it or keep it in a closet at night, give bright indirect light by day, water sparingly and stop feeding; night lighting prevents bud set. To flower for a given date, start the treatment about 2 months ahead.